g2 ORCHIDS. 
The only difference between this genus and Leelia is that 
in the latter there are four pairs of pollen-masses—termed 
pollinta—instead of two. In all other characters the two 
genera are identical. The rhizome is strong and woody, 
creeping, and bearing at intervals the stems, or pseudo- 
bulbs. The leaves are apical, and usually in pairs, some- 
times solitary; they are leathery in texture, and remain 
on the plant several years. Generally, each branch of the 
rhizome produces only one new pseudo-bulb annually. The 
flowers are developed on short, stout spikes, from the 
top of the pseudo-bulb, and are at first inclosed in a 
sheath. When in good health, each pseudo-bulb will 
produce a spike of flowers, which last a considerable time 
before fading. Many of the kinds are plentiful enough to 
be obtained at little cost, and they are not difficult to 
cultivate when once understood. In a word, Cattleyas are 
gorgeously beautiful, and are essentially Orchids for 
amateurs. The various members of this genus are 
natives of New Grenada, Brazil, and Central America, 
and are entirely confined to the Western hemisphere. 
They vary considerably in size; for whilst some have. 
pseudo-bulbs only 2in. or 3in. long, others reach as many 
feet in height, forming, in a state of nature, huge masses 
several yards in diameter. In addition to true species and 
varieties, we have now many Cattleyas which have been 
produced in this country by hybridising and cross-breeding, 
and these, both for size of flower and the beauty of their 
markings, may vie with the choicest of the introduced kinds. 
With reference to the conditions under which Cattleyas are 
found growing in a state of nature, M. Van Volxem says: 
‘““Cattleyas grow generally from 5ft. to 15ft. above the 
ground, commencing on the forks of thick trees, whence they | 
extend to the branches, preferring those that are more 
horizontal than vertical. Between and around the bulbs 
